Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide Pentahydrate: Composition, Properties, and Uses

Magnesium carbonate hydroxide pentahydrate is an inorganic compound that combines magnesium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide, stabilized with five molecules of water. This compound is primarily known for its use in pharmaceuticals, food, and industrial applications due to its mild basicity, antacid properties, and low toxicity.

Chemical Identity and Structure

• Chemical Formula: Mg₅(CO₃)₄(OH)₂·5H₂O

• Common Name: Light basic magnesium carbonate

• Appearance: White, lightweight, amorphous or crystalline powder

• Solubility: Practically insoluble in water and alcohol

• Odor: Odorless

• Taste: Slightly earthy, chalky

This compound is often described as a basic form of magnesium carbonate, combining carbonate (CO₃²⁻) and hydroxide (OH⁻) ions in a hydrated magnesium matrix.

Key Applications

1. Pharmaceutical Use (Antacid and Laxative):
Magnesium carbonate hydroxide pentahydrate is widely used in over-the-counter antacid medications. It neutralizes stomach acid, helping relieve heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach. In higher doses, it may act as a mild laxative.

2. Food Additive (E504):
As a food-grade compound, it functions as an anti-caking agent, acidity regulator, and color retention agent. It is approved under the designation E504 in many food regulatory systems.

3. Dietary Magnesium Supplement:
It serves as a magnesium source in nutritional supplements, helping to correct magnesium deficiency in humans and animals.

4. Cosmetic and Personal Care Products:
Due to its mild absorbency and low abrasiveness, it’s found in body powders, face masks, and toothpaste formulations.

5. Industrial Applications:
This compound is used as a filler in rubber and plastics, a drying agent in ceramics, and a fire retardant due to its decomposition into water and carbon dioxide when heated.

Physical and Chemical Behavior

Magnesium carbonate hydroxide pentahydrate decomposes when heated, releasing water and carbon dioxide and forming magnesium oxide. Its buffering and absorption capacities make it suitable for a wide range of chemical processes.

• Thermal Decomposition:
  Mg5(CO3)4(OH)2⋅5H2O→Δ5MgO+4CO2+6H2Otext{Mg}_5(text{CO}_3)_4(text{OH})_2·5text{H}_2text{O} xrightarrow{Delta} 5text{MgO} + 4text{CO}_2 + 6text{H}_2text{O}Mg5​(CO3​)4​(OH)2​⋅5H2​OΔ​5MgO+4CO2​+6H2​O

This decomposition reaction contributes to its fire-retardant properties and usefulness in producing magnesium oxide.

Handling and Safety

Magnesium carbonate hydroxide pentahydrate is considered non-toxic and safe when used appropriately. However, as with any powdered material, it should be handled carefully to avoid respiratory irritation.

• Inhalation: May cause mild irritation if dust is inhaled in large quantities. Use proper ventilation.

• Skin/Eye Contact: Low risk, but eye protection is advisable when handling bulk powder.

• Ingestion: Generally safe in small doses; high intake may lead to diarrhea or electrolyte imbalance.

• Storage: Keep container tightly sealed, in a dry place, away from acids and moisture.

Environmental Considerations

The compound poses minimal environmental risk. It is naturally occurring and readily neutralized in the environment. Waste disposal is typically safe and regulated by general inorganic chemical disposal practices.

Conclusion

Magnesium carbonate hydroxide pentahydrate is a multipurpose compound valued for its versatility and safety. From calming an upset stomach to enhancing industrial products, it serves a wide range of roles thanks to its stable chemical nature and beneficial magnesium content. Whether used in food, medicine, or manufacturing, it stands as a trusted and functional material in both consumer and industrial applications.

Contact Us

Phone : +49 1512 4714765 ( Germany )
Phone : +1 (702) 381-3042 ( USA )
Email : [email protected]
Address : Cunostraße 56, 14193 Berlin. Germany
Address : 7373 Rowlett Park Dr, Tampa, FL 33610, United States.